JobXDubai

Ram Buxani, a trailblazing Indian entrepreneur and chairman of ITL Cosmos Group, passed away in Dubai on July 7, 2024, at the age of 83. His death marks the end of an era for Dubai’s Indian business community and the city’s rapid development.

A Journey from Office Assistant to Business Tycoon

Buxani’s story is one of remarkable perseverance and vision. Arriving in Dubai in 1959 as a young office assistant, he witnessed the transformation of the city from a small trading post to a global business hub. Over six decades, Buxani played a pivotal role in steering ITL Cosmos Group into a diversified business conglomerate with significant presence in distribution, indenting, retail, and manufacturing sectors.

Community Leader and Cultural Ambassador

Beyond his business acumen, Buxani was a pillar of the Indian community in Dubai. He served as:

• Founder-Chairman of the Overseas Indians Economic Forum
• Chairman of India Club Dubai (2012-2015 and 1990-1994)
• Chairman of the Indian High School Dubai (2000-2004)

His contributions to the Non-Resident Indian (NRI) community earned him recognition from the President of India in 1983.

Chronicler of Dubai’s Transformation

Buxani’s vivid recollections of early Dubai paint a picture of a city on the cusp of change:

• Arriving by boat to a small town he could explore in half an hour
• Witnessing the transition from kerosene lamps to modern electricity
• Observing the 6 pm curfew when the city would “sleep”
• Helping establish Meena Bazaar as a vibrant commercial center

His autobiography, “Taking the High Road,” and his book on the Sindhi community, “Sindhis–God’s Gift to Global Economy,” serve as valuable historical records of Dubai’s growth and the Indian diaspora’s contributions.

A Legacy of Inspiration

Indian Ambassador Sunjay Sudhir paid tribute to Buxani, stating, “The passing of Ram Buxani is a sad moment. In his passing, the community has lost a guide, a role model, and a mentor. Buxani has done the Indian community in the UAE proud. He will remain an inspiration for generations of Indians who call the UAE home.”

Ram Buxani’s life story embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship, community service, and cultural integration that has shaped modern Dubai. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of expatriate businesspeople and community leaders in the UAE and beyond.